Dear Rabbi Simon
We have a quick question for you with respect to the flu vaccination for our daughter.
We received an email from the NHS, indicating that the vaccine is made of porcine gelatine. They indicate that we can request an alternative if we do not want a vaccine of porcine origin. We would like to know if we need to ask for the alternative or if a vaccine made of porcine gelatine is acceptable since this is a medication and it is for the benefit of young child.
Many thanks in advance!
Vicky
Dear Vicky
Thank you for your practical question.
There is no problem with this nasal vaccine, notwithstanding its porcine origins. The reasons for this are several, among them the fact that this is a nasal spray which is not ingested as food may be.
By the way, there is a prohibition to feed non-kosher food even to a young child. But this vaccine is fine, and you do not need to request an alternative (which may be less effective, more invasive, etc.).
Best wishes and kind regards
Rabbi Rashi Simon